Latest news with #meteorologicaldepartment
Arab News
2 days ago
- Climate
- Arab News
Pakistan monsoon death toll hits 242, with at least 116 children among the dead
ISLAMABAD: Pakistan's meteorological department on Tuesday warned of glacier lake outburst floods (GLOFs), flash floods and landslides in the country's mountainous northern regions, as the national death toll from monsoon-related incidents climbed to 242, including at least 116 children. The warning comes amid ongoing heavy monsoon rains that have battered the country since late June, triggering urban flooding, house collapses and deadly flash floods. At least 21 people, including 12 children, died in the past 24 hours alone, according to Pakistan's National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA), with many of the fatalities reported from drowning, building collapses and fast-moving floodwaters. The worst-hit province has been Punjab, Pakistan's most populous region, where at least 135 people have died. Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KP) reported 56 fatalities, followed by 24 in Sindh, 16 in Balochistan, six in the federal capital of Islamabad, three in Gilgit-Baltistan (GB) and two in Azad Jammu and Kashmir. 'In continuation to the GLOF alert issued dated July 15, the wet spell is likely to continue and can affect KP and GB in the current week,' the Pakistan Meteorological Department (PMD) said in a public statement. 'The prevailing weather conditions increase the risk of GLOFs, flashfloods, and landslide events in vulnerable glaciated regions of GB and KP.' Glacier lake outburst floods, sudden discharges of water from glacial lakes, are a growing threat in Pakistan's north due to accelerated glacial melting driven by climate change. These floods can inundate entire valleys in minutes, destroying roads, homes and livelihoods. The PMD also warned of landslides and mudslides in areas such as Murree, Galliyat, Azad Kashmir, and Gilgit-Baltistan, cautioning that roads could be blocked and essential connectivity disrupted. Heavy rains are forecast to continue until July 25. CLIMATE CHANGE EFFECTS On Tuesday, urban flooding also hit the capital Islamabad, with viral videos showing cars swept away by torrents of water in Saidpur Village and the upscale Defense Housing Authority (DHA) neighborhood. One video widely circulated on social media showed a vehicle submerged in floodwater, with a man inside calling for help. Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif expressed sorrow over reports of a father and daughter believed to have drowned in the DHA flooding and directed authorities to expedite rescue operations across flood-affected areas. The monsoon season typically brings 70 to 80 percent of South Asia's annual rainfall, arriving in June in India and slightly later in Pakistan. While vital for agriculture, the rains also wreak havoc in countries with fragile infrastructure, poor drainage and high vulnerability to climate shocks. Pakistan, home to more than 7,000 glaciers, is consistently ranked among the countries most at risk from climate change, despite contributing less than 1 percent to global greenhouse gas emissions. It has seen increasingly erratic weather patterns in recent years, including record-breaking heatwaves, droughts, and severe storms. In May, at least 32 people were killed in separate incidents of torrential rainfall and hailstorms across the country. In 2022, catastrophic floods caused by a combination of unprecedented monsoon rains and glacial melt submerged nearly a third of Pakistan, killing more than 1,700 people and displacing over 8 million. That disaster inflicted an estimated $30 billion in economic losses and prompted repeated UN calls for global climate reparations.
The Independent
3 days ago
- Climate
- The Independent
Tropical Storm Wipha batters Vietnam after lashing China with record rainfall
Tropical Storm Wipha made a second landfall in Vietnam on Tuesday, after lashing China earlier, bringing torrential rain and strong winds as authorities rushed to evacuate low-lying areas and warned of possible floods and landslides. The storm came ashore in northern Vietnam around 10am local time in Hung Yen and Ninh Binh provinces with sustained winds reaching up to 102 kmph (63 mph), according to Vietnam's national weather agency. Heavy rain in China's eastern province of Shandong killed two people and left 10 people missing after half a year's worth of rain fell in five hours, drenching the Laiwu district in the city of Jinan, the local government reported on Tuesday. Xinhua reported that two Chinese nationals were also killed in Thailand due to the tropical storm. The meteorological department warned of thunderstorms and possible flash floods from Tuesday to Thursday, especially in the country's north and northeast, while the south could experience tides as high as four meters. The department advised small boats to avoid sailing during the period. In Vietnam, nearly 350,000 soldiers were placed on standby as the country braced for up to 50cm (20 inches) of rain in affected regions. Although no casualties were immediately reported there, damage assessments are still underway. In Haiphong, a key port city, residents described moderate wind and rain early Tuesday. 'We are able to go outdoors this morning as the wind is not too strong,' a Cat Ba Island resident told Reuters. Airports and ports across northern provinces, including Hai Phong and Quang Ninh, suspended operations. More than 150,000 hectares of aquaculture farms and over 20,000 floating fish cages were reported at risk, according to state media. In Hanoi, usually busy streets emptied as officials urged people to stay indoors and evacuate flood-prone buildings. 'If the storm is serious, people shouldn't go out anyway because it would be dangerous on the road and there is also a chance of flooding,' Minh Doan, a taxi driver in the capital, told AP. In China, the storm's remnants combined with ongoing monsoon activity to unleash extreme rainfall across multiple provinces. In Shandong, more than 360mm of rain – about half the city of Jinan's average annual total – fell in just five hours early Tuesday. The sudden deluge also left 10 missing, local authorities said, with flash floods damaging homes and cutting off access to mountain villages. Southern Chinese provinces including Guangdong, Guangxi, and Hainan also remain on high alert following Typhoon Wipha's landfall on Sunday. The storm knocked down trees, grounded flights, and caused widespread power outages in Hong Kong and parts of mainland China before weakening over land. According to China's national meteorological agency, more rainfall is expected in the coming days, heightening the risk of flash floods and landslides. Extreme weather has already caused at least 307 deaths or disappearances across China in the first half of 2025 and resulted in economic losses exceeding $7.6bn, Reuters reported. 'Rising sea surface temperatures, fuelled by climate change, can intensify these storms,' said Benjamin P. Horton, dean of the School of Energy and Environment at City University of Hong Kong. Warmer oceans are making typhoons stronger and wetter, he said, shifting rainfall patterns and exposing vulnerable infrastructure across East Asia. Elsewhere in Asia, the monsoon system has wreaked havoc. In the Philippines, more than 80,000 people remain in emergency shelters following weekend floods and landslides that killed at least three people. In Thailand, authorities warned of possible 4-metre tides and flash floods through Thursday, with the meteorological department advising boats to stay ashore. Wipha is expected to weaken into a low-pressure system as it moves southwest across Vietnam but will continue to bring heavy rain through Wednesday. Forecasters warn that saturated soil and swollen rivers could still pose significant danger in the coming days.
Arab News
05-07-2025
- Climate
- Arab News
Met Office issues GLOF alert for northern Pakistan amid rising temperatures
ISLAMABAD: The Pakistan Meteorological Department (PMD) on Friday issued an alert regarding possible Glacial Lake Outburst Floods (GLOFs) in Pakistan's northern areas, amid rising temperatures in the country. Hot and humid weather prevailed over most parts of Pakistan and isolated falls of rain were recorded in Punjab, Azad Kashmir, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Balochistan and Sindh in the last 24 hours. Nokkundi in Balochistan recorded the highest temperature on Friday 47°C, followed by 46°C in Bunji in Gilgit-Baltistan, and 45 in Dalbandin, Sibbi and Jacobabad, according to the PMD. 'Due to a significant rise in temperatures and upcoming system in northern Pakistan, the risk of Glacial Lake Outburst Floods (GLOFs) is very likely to increase in glaciated areas of Gilgit-Baltistan and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa,' it said. 'The persistent high temperatures may accelerate snow and glacier melt and subsequent weather events, potentially triggering GLOF and flash floods incidents, in vulnerable valleys and surrounding regions.' The development comes as Pakistan braces for an extreme monsoon season that usually lasts till mid-September, with over 60 people killed in rains and floods in a little more than a week. 'All concerned are advised to remain alert and take necessary measures to avoid any untoward situation,' the PMD said in its alert. Pakistan, home to over 240 million people, is consistently ranked among the countries most vulnerable to climate change. In 2022, record-breaking monsoon rains and glacier melt caused catastrophic floods that affected 33 million people, killed more than 1,700 and caused over $30 billion in financial losses.
Time of India
27-06-2025
- Climate
- Time of India
Orange, yellow alerts in state today
Kochi: India meteorological department (IMD) issued a heavy rainfall alert for Kerala for the next two days. Widespread rainfall activity will continue until July 3. Strong westerlies are likely to prevail over Kerala and Lakshadweep in the lower tropospheric levels for the next two days. An orange alert has been issued for Pathanamthitta, Kottayam, Idukki, Malappuram and Wayanad on Saturday, while the remaining districts are on yellow alert. On Sunday, Pathanamthitta, Kottayam, Idukki, Malappuram and Wayanad are on yellow alert. Squally weather with wind speeds of 40-50kmph, gusting to 60kmph, is likely along and off Kerala coasts. Incois issued a high wave alert for Kannur and Kasaragod coasts. The trough from northeast Arabian Sea to the cyclonic circulation associated with low-pressure area over northwest Bay of Bengal has merged with an east-west trough running from the cyclonic circulation over southwest Rajasthan to Bangladesh across east Rajasthan. A fresh upper-air cyclonic circulation is likely to develop over north Bay of Bengal and adjoining coastal Bangladesh and West Bengal on Sunday. Under its influence, a low-pressure area is likely to form over the same region during the subsequent 24 hours. by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like Free P2,000 GCash eGift UnionBank Credit Card Apply Now Undo Several places in the state recorded widespread rainfall. According to the 24-hour rainfall recorded on Friday morning, Kayamkulam and Ernakulam South recorded 12cm while Mavelikkara, Haripad, Aluva and Thalassery recorded 11cm each. Cherthala, Kumarakom and Aluva received 10cm. Due to dangerously rising water levels, central water commission issued an orange alert for Kallooppara station of Manimala river in Pathanamthitta. A yellow alert has been issued for Pamba (Madamon station) and Achankovil (Thumpamon station) in Pathanamthitta; Thodupuzha (Manakkad station) in Idukki and Keecheri (Kottappuram station) in Thrissur district.
Free Malaysia Today
10-06-2025
- Health
- Free Malaysia Today
How to stay safe and well in the scorching heat
Extreme heat can quickly lead to a range of health issues, especially when the body's core temperature rises above 40°C – at which point, vital organs begin to suffer. (Bernama pic) KUALA LUMPUR : The heatwave gripping the nation is more than just a matter of discomfort – it poses a real threat to public health. Last week, the meteorological department issued Level 1 heatwave alerts – triggered when maximum daily temperatures range between 35°C and 37°C – for six areas nationwide. The heat is largely attributed to the southwest monsoon, which typically brings drier weather and intense heat. These conditions are expected to last until September. Extreme heat can quickly lead to a range of health issues, especially when the body's core temperature rises above 40°C. At that point, vital organs begin to suffer. Recognising early symptoms and responding quickly is crucial. Among the first signs is heat rash or prickly heat, an itchy red irritation caused when sweat ducts become blocked. Heat cramps, on the other hand, result from salt and fluid loss due to excessive sweating, causing painful muscle spasms, often during or after strenuous activity. If the heat strain continues, it can lead to heat exhaustion – the body's way of signalling dehydration and salt depletion. Symptoms include nausea, headache, dizziness, fatigue, excessive thirst, and heavy sweating. Left untreated, this can escalate into heat stroke, a life-threatening emergency in which the body loses its ability to cool down. Warning signs include confusion, unconsciousness, and seizures. Unlike the earlier stages, sweating may stop entirely. What to do in an emergency Prompt action can save lives. Here's what you can do if someone shows early signs of heat-related illness. Heat rash or heat cramps: Stop all activity, move into the shade, rest, and hydrate – preferably with isotonic drinks, which help replenish electrolytes lost through sweat. Stop all activity, move into the shade, rest, and hydrate – preferably with isotonic drinks, which help replenish electrolytes lost through sweat. Heat exhaustion: Seek immediate medical attention at the nearest clinic or hospital. Left untreated, it could progress to heat stroke. Seek immediate medical attention at the nearest clinic or hospital. Left untreated, it could progress to heat stroke. Heat stroke: This is a medical emergency, so call 999 immediately. Move the person to a cool place, remove excess clothing, and begin cooling methods such as fanning, applying damp towels, or using cool water. If the person is conscious, offer small sips of isotonic drink. Don't leave the individual alone until help arrives. Try to avoid outdoor activities in peak heat hours between 11am and 3pm, and always dress sensibly for the climate. Staying healthy in the heat Heat-related illnesses are largely preventable. The key is awareness and proactive care. Here are essential tips: Stay hydrated: Drink water consistently throughout the day, not just when thirsty. Avoid alcohol and caffeine. Isotonic drinks are helpful, especially during prolonged outdoor exposure. Drink water consistently throughout the day, not just when thirsty. Avoid alcohol and caffeine. Isotonic drinks are helpful, especially during prolonged outdoor exposure. Dress smart: Wear loose, breathable, light-coloured clothing to reflect sunlight and allow heat to escape. Wear loose, breathable, light-coloured clothing to reflect sunlight and allow heat to escape. Avoid peak heat hours: Limit outdoor activities between 11am and 3pm. If you must go out, use hats or umbrellas for shade. Limit outdoor activities between 11am and 3pm. If you must go out, use hats or umbrellas for shade. Protect the vulnerable: Check in regularly on the elderly, young children, and those with chronic health conditions. Many may dismiss the rising temperatures, thinking Malaysians are used to the heat. But it's important to remember that this is not your typical Malaysian weather. Ignoring the warning signs could prove dangerous, so stay alert, stay cool, and stay safe. This article was written by Dr Shahrul Nizam Ahmad Zamali, consultant emergency physician at KPJ Ampang Puteri Specialist Hospital.
